International Youth Day: How Youth Can Combat the Stigma of Mental Health

Fifteen years ago, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 12th International Youth Day to raise awareness on issues affecting youth worldwide and to celebrate the role of younger generations as essential partners in change. This year, our celebration focuses on the theme of, “Youth and Mental Health” under a simple yet powerful slogan — “Mental Health Matters.”

I was diagnosed with severe depression at the age of 12. I continued to battle with depression and anxiety through middle school and high school without treatment, into early adulthood. During the time, I felt helpless in addressing my situation and was often suicidal. It wasn’t until college, that I was able to receive the help that I needed, and in turn, help others.

In college, I participated in a variety of mental health advocacy groups on campus. My freshman year, I joined a confidential peer-listening group called A Place to Talk that connected me to a network of peers who had been through similar struggles. Through APTT, I realized that I was not alone, and more importantly — that there were others who needed help too.

I joined Hopkins Speaks Up last semester, a new university initiative that encouraged individuals to speak about their own struggles to combat the stigma of mental health. When we launched our first trailer, we received a tremendous amount of support. Inspired by my peers, I spoke publicly for the first time about the circumstances and struggles surrounding my depression as a panelist at my school’s Active Minds event. I realized that with the ongoing positivity surrounding our efforts, we had successfully contributed to the dialogue on mental health and set a precedent for others to come forward and share their experiences.

Youth Voices Matter

In my experience, institutional support was necessary to combat the stigma against mental health by providing a platform for youth voices to be heard. It is critical to continue combatting the stigma of mental health. By being a vocal advocate for mental health, or a supporter of advocates, change can occur to dispel the fear and misunderstanding surrounding mental health issues, and encourage others to openly seek the services and support they need.

As we commemorate International Youth Day, it is also important to acknowledge the power of younger generations in affecting change. Youth voices are crucial in the process of creating sustained social change for our generation. Providing young advocates the tools, support, and guidance we need, can allow youth to implement their insights and bring about positive transformations.